The SSU, together with the National Police, has blocked an attempt to steal over UAH 1.3 bln (USD 33 mln) from the state budget of Ukraine.

As a result of the operation, the SSU exposed the perpetrators who tried to divert these funds as an illegal refund of the value added tax.

The organizer of the scheme is a Kyiv-based entrepreneur who fictitiously employed people with disabilities at his companies. This allowed him to claim tax benefits and receive compensation from the state.

According to the investigation, he involved 15 controlled commercial entities in Kyiv region, as well as in Vinnytsia and Cherkasy oblasts, in the scheme.

His accomplices sought out people with disabilities and hired them for a nominal fee. However, the employees did not actually show up for work and were not involved in the production process.

The businessmen reported to the authorities that a privileged category of population accounted for more than half of the workforce in the companies.

In this way, the dealers were entitled to reimbursement of over UAH 1.3 bln from the state budget.

By acting quickly, the SSU prevented the embezzlement of budget money.

During the 24 searches at the suspects’ homes and offices, the SSU seized:

• mobile phones and computers with evidence;
• documents and records confirming attempts to illegally refund VAT.

The investigation is ongoing. The proceedings were opened under the Articles of the CCU:

• 209.3 (money laundering);
• 364.2 (abuse of power or position).

The main suspect is to be notified of suspicion, while the court is to decide on a measure of restraint. The organizer faces up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The investigation is conducted under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office.